Demystifying Chronic and Acute Pain: Key Distinctions Explained

Demystifying Chronic & Acute Pain: Key Distinctions Explained | LaserLab

Chronic pain and acute pain are two distinct conditions that require different approaches. Understanding the difference between the two is not just a matter of duration. It also involves knowing the difference in treatment strategies.

Instead of just focusing on treatments that control symptoms, there is starting to be more of an emphasis on therapies that seek to heal the body at its core. At LaserLab in Lake Mary, FL, we have carved a niche in pain-reducing laser treatments that address both sides of the spectrum when it comes to chronic pain vs. acute pain. Using the power of the Summus® Laser, we are committed to delivering effective relief for conditions ranging from neuropathy to sports injuries, with a focus on safety, effectiveness, and patient satisfaction.

Chronic Pain vs. Acute Pain: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to chronic pain vs. acute pain, each has distinct causes, triggers, and treatment strategies. We begin our treatments with a consultation to determine which you are suffering from and then begin building our services on that. 

What Is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is prolonged, persistent pain that typically lasts for more than three months. It can range in intensity from mild to severe and can be continuous or intermittent, affecting an individual’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Examples of chronic pain can include migraines, back pain, and arthritis-related discomfort.

Causes of Chronic Pain

When exploring the causes of chronic pain, several factors come into play. Chronic pain can arise from an initial injury, like a back sprain, or there may be an illness that is causing symptoms such as neuropathy. However, there are also cases where the exact cause of chronic pain is unknown, making it a challenging issue to address. Sometimes, even after the injury has healed, the pain signals remain active in the nervous system for weeks, months, or even years. Common causes of chronic pain include age-related disorders like osteoarthritis, nerve damage, and diseases like cancer, diabetes, or fibromyalgia.

What Is Acute Pain?

Acute pain acts as an immediate signal, drawing attention to an injury or a specific issue in the body. This kind of pain can arise quickly, often presenting as a sharp sensation. It’s the body’s way of signaling a potential problem or medical concern. While acute pain can be fleeting, lasting mere seconds, it can also persist, becoming intense and extending for several weeks or even months. Situations that may trigger such pain include surgical procedures, fractures, or dental treatments. If acute pain stretches beyond a three-month period, it could transition into what is known as chronic pain.

Causes of Acute Pain

The causes of acute pain are often easier to pinpoint. They’re usually linked directly to the damage of tissue such as bone, muscle, or organs. Common triggers for acute pain include surgical procedures, broken bones, burns or cuts, labor and childbirth, and even certain medical procedures.

About Our Summus Laser Treatments 

At our clinic, we harness the advanced capabilities of the Summus Laser to target the root causes of both chronic and acute pain. The Summus Laser is an advanced class IV medical device designed for precise therapeutic applications, especially in the field of pain management and tissue repair. Using laser technology, it offers targeted treatment, potentially providing relief for various medical conditions by promoting cell regeneration and reducing inflammation.

Choosing Our Services for Chronic and Acute Pain

  • Treatments Target the Root Cause of the Pain: Our approach to pain management delves deeper than just symptom relief; we aim to address and treat the underlying issues causing your pain.
  • Treatments Are Customizable for Individual Needs: Recognizing that every individual’s pain and body are unique, we tailor our treatments to best suit and address each person’s needs.
  • Promotes Natural Healing and Wellness: By harnessing the power of the Summus Laser, we stimulate the body’s inherent healing processes, promoting overall wellness and recovery.
  • Can Treat a Broad Range of Conditions and Patients: Whether it’s neuropathy or sports injuries, our treatments are versatile enough to address a wide array of conditions effectively. It can also treat all different ages, including children.
  • Is Pain-Free and Non-Invasive: Our commitment to pain management doesn’t stop at treating existing pain. We ensure our treatments are pain-free and non-invasive, making healing as comfortable as possible for our patients.

Typical Treatment Plans for Chronic Pain

For those experiencing chronic discomfort, we typically recommend between six and 12 treatments spread out over several weeks. Our patients will usually come in between two and three times every week until symptoms subside. These plans not only target the persistent symptoms but also aim to reduce any triggers, ensuring a comprehensive approach to relief and recovery.

Typical Treatment Plans for Acute Pain

The primary objective of our acute pain treatment regimens is to manage sudden discomfort and hasten the healing process. Because of this, acute pain treatments often involve more treatments packed into a shorter amount of time. Many of our patients benefit from daily Summus Laser treatments for a treatment period of anywhere from several days to a week. This is sometimes followed up by maintenance treatments as recommended. This helps to rapidly alleviate the pain, ensuring patients regain their mobility, sleep quality, and overall well-being in the shortest time possible.

What Sets Our Treatments Apart?

At LaserLab, our treatments go beyond the standard approach. We believe in a holistic experience through the LaserLab Experience, which emphasizes not just healing but also relaxation and revitalization. As part of this unique offering, we enhance your sessions with calming aromatherapy and uplifting music along with additional amenities to ensure that each treatment complements and elevates your entire well-being. It’s this blend of therapeutic and regenerative care that truly sets our services apart.

Revolutionary Chronic Pain and Acute Pain Treatments

Navigating the differences between chronic pain vs. acute pain can be complex, but with the right care, relief is within reach for both. At LaserLab in Lake Mary, FL, we’re dedicated to providing expert solutions tailored to your situation and your pain. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a pain-free life, contact us at (407) 440-9011 or fill out our online form.

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